Opel GTE from 1978 with number 26 (Solido reference 1937)
Scale 1/43
Self-adhesive decal sheet
PLEASE NOTE: the first image is a computer-generated render and may not exactly match the vehicle in this listing, so please check the photos that follow it.
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Get it between Tuesday 17 and Wednesday 18 November
The 1978 Opel GTE die-cast model with race number 26, produced by Solido under reference 1937, perfectly captures the sporting spirit of this compact saloon that left its mark on the 1970s. This faithful 1:43 scale replica is an essential piece for any collector who loves European cars from that golden decade.
This Solido miniature showcases French craftsmanship in scale model making, offering enthusiasts an authentic collectible that pays tribute to one of the most cherished compact sports cars of its era.
The Opel GTE arrived in 1975 as the sporty version of the Opel Kadett C. At a time when European manufacturers were looking to make performance more accessible, Opel built this high-performance version to win over a young, dynamic clientele. The GTE stood out with its 1.9-litre engine producing 105 horsepower, a remarkable output for its class at the time.
This compact saloon redefined Opel's approach to sportiness thanks to its firmer sport suspension, front disc brakes and a cabin designed specifically for driving enjoyment. Its sharp styling, with widened wheel arch extensions and a distinctive grille, clearly signalled its sporting ambitions while keeping everyday practicality intact.
The GTE's commercial success exceeded Opel's expectations, especially in European markets, where it quickly became a credible alternative to the Golf GTI and other compact sports cars of the day. This achievement paved the way for a whole line of GTE models that would continue to shape the German brand's history.
Founded in 1862 by Adam Opel, the German brand underwent a major transformation when General Motors acquired it in 1929. This alliance gave Opel access to remarkable engineering expertise, particularly in high-performance and reliable engines. During the 1970s, when the GTE was created, Opel established itself as GM's European laboratory, developing technologies that would influence the entire American group.
The GTE's launch period was a time of intense innovation at Opel. The brand invested heavily in research and development, creating vehicles that combined sporting performance and German reliability. This philosophy is evident throughout the GTE, which embodies the culmination of that demanding technical approach.
The 1970s also marked Opel's golden age in motorsport, with notable successes in rallying and circuit racing. That competition expertise carried over directly into production models, with the GTE benefiting from technologies developed on the track.
The story of the Opel GTE is inseparable from the European rivalry among compact sports cars of the 1970s. When Volkswagen launched the Golf GTI in 1976, Opel immediately felt the need to respond with an equivalent model. Although it arrived a few months earlier, the GTE quickly became the spearhead of this technological and commercial battle.
A colourful story has it that Opel engineers regularly used Golf GTIs as benchmark test cars during the GTE's development. The practice was common in the auto industry and shows how intense the competition was at the time. Comparative tests of the period often noted that the GTE outperformed its Wolfsburg rival in certain areas, notably road handling and interior finish.
The GTE also made its mark through its notable presence in European rallies of the 1970s. Many private drivers chose this Opel for its robustness and ease of preparation. That competitive popularity helped build the German brand's sporting reputation and paved the way for future high-performance models.
It is worth noting that the number 26 livery reproduced by Solido recalls one of the GTE's notable competition appearances, a testament to the historical authenticity of this miniature and its connection to the great moments of European motorsport.
This Opel GTE Solido naturally fits into a collection dedicated to European sports cars of the 1970s. It pairs perfectly with other iconic models from that golden decade, whether Volkswagen models from the same era or contemporary sporty Ford models.
Fans of 1:43 scale models will particularly appreciate the quality of this Solido reproduction, which harmonises well with other references from this French manufacturer. This GTE is also an ideal addition to a themed collection on the 1970s, a period of major technical innovation in European car manufacturing.
This miniature appeals as much to seasoned collectors as to car enthusiasts who want to relive the sporty atmosphere of the seventies. Displayed in a cabinet alongside other Opel models or racing cars from the same period, it creates a cohesive display that reflects the timeless automotive passion that continues to fascinate enthusiasts around the world.
Serge PINSON
12 November 2026
In addition to the fact that the 1/43 miniatures received are perfectly in line with the photographs and my expectations and are of great finesse, they arrived very quickly (I was even informed of the shipment) and very carefully packaged. Very satisfied, I placed a new order with Bernard Miniatures, a seller I recommend for their selection and reliability.
Christian Frassinetti
11 November 2026
High-quality products, top-level shipping, we care about the customer in this house, I am more than satisfied with my purchases. There will be more...
Herve
11 November 2026
Perfectly packaged product, arrived well and completely matches the description, I highly recommend! Thank you!
The scale is the reduction ratio between the real car and the model. At 1:43 scale, for example, every centimetre of the model represents 43 centimetres of the real vehicle.
In practice, a 1:18 Ferrari model is about 25–30 cm long, while at 1:43 it measures roughly 10 cm.
Our model cars mainly come in 1:43, 1:24, 1:18 and 1:87 (HO) scale. The scale is always listed on the product page.
The smaller the second number, the bigger the model (e.g. 1:18 is larger than 1:43).
Yes, every model car ships in its protective box. The box preserves its collector value and protects your model from dust and knocks.
We pack every order with great care: bubble wrap, snug padding and polystyrene. Your model car is fully secured on its way to you.
In-stock items ship within 24–48h. Allow 2–3 business days for mainland France with Colissimo, or 4–5 days with Mondial Relay.
I can't say exactly when new stock will arrive, as it comes in a trickle. Feel free to contact me and I'll let you know as soon as it's available.